Clastoptera undulata

Uhler, 1864

Casuarina Spittlebug

Clastoptera undulata is a spittlebug in the Clastopteridae, first described by Uhler in 1864. It is commonly known as the Casuarina Spittlebug. The species gained attention as an pest in Bermuda, where it was discovered in 1959. efforts were undertaken using the Carabunia myersi. Most individuals in the Bermuda overwinter as . The species belongs to a group of xylem-feeding insects known for producing protective 'spittle' masses during their nymphal stages.

Clastoptera undulata by (c) Alison Northup, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Alison Northup. Used under a CC-BY license.

Clastoptera undulata - casuarina spittlebug by Sam Fraser-Smith. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Clastoptera undulata - casuarina spittlebug (3771203232) by Sam Fraser-Smith from Brisbane, Australia. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Clastoptera undulata: //klæsˈtɒptəra ˌʌndjʊˈleɪtə//

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Distribution

Native distribution unclear; established as in Bermuda (discovered 1959). Distribution records also reported from Cuba (CU). The related Clastoptera flavidorsa has been observed in Jamaica.

Host Associations

Carabunia myersi - Encyrtid introduced from Jamaica for of larvae in Bermuda

Life Cycle

Most individuals in the Bermuda overwinter as .

Behavior

Nymphs produce protective spittle masses, characteristic of the Clastopteridae.

Human Relevance

Subject of studies in Bermuda following its establishment as an in 1959. The introduction of Carabunia myersi from Jamaica represents an early attempt at for this spittlebug.

Similar Taxa

Clastoptera flavidorsaRelated observed in Jamaica; used as source for agent

More Details

Taxonomic History

The was first described by Uhler in 1864. It was not recognized as present in Bermuda until 1959, when it was discovered as an established .

Biological Control Context

The Bermuda invasion prompted one of the earlier documented programs for a spittlebug, with the encyrtid Carabunia myersi introduced from Jamaica. This reflects the ' potential to reach pest status in suitable environments.